SCA needs a helping hand

How many times last winter did we grab the hand or arm of a friend and carefully, cautiously inch our way across ice-covered sidewalks and roads? Walking on a slippery slope of any kind is best done when we hold hands. In our current culture, raising children can be a very slippery slope. Racism, violence, disrespect, greed for money and power are on every social media source, in the newspaper, and on the television. Lives can be torn apart in seconds and in only seconds more, the world can see and hear it. It concerns all citizens. And bringing sweet children into all of this? Yep, it's a slippery slope indeed.

Then there are the abysmal statistics about our current education system. In spite of thousands of educators pouring their lives into their students, the U.S. currently ranks 17th in the world in science, and we're in 25th place for math. Counting on the current educational system alone to support our children, to help them reach their full educational potential, is a slope we're already sliding, not advancing upward.

Studies show that students who attend schools like SCA measure significantly higher than their peers in respect for authority; moral integrity; donating more time, money, and volunteerism to local churches, local communities, and global causes. They have significantly higher achievement test scores; higher college attendance; and stronger marriages and family ties.

Sisters Christian Academy is an accredited educational alternative in our community with certified teachers, that offers parents a choice. SCA isn't "against" other educational options. It is for offering children a quality and unique educational opportunity.

Parents and grandparents of our students are deeply moved by the caring, skill, and commitment of our families and staff. It's a safe place where children are truly seen and known. It's a fun place where academics and living life as a beloved child of God are celebrated, not shunned. It's a "holding hands on a slippery sidewalk" kind of place where parents and teachers are united.

However, it is not a place without life's bumps and struggles. It's a real place where teachers and administrators, who all love Jesus and have a biblical worldview, come alongside kids. These folks walk children through truth-telling, forgiveness, and restoration. Kids learn in context how their faith is a strong foundation in life's struggles. It's a process that both matures them and empowers them.

As stated before, we all walk a slippery slope in raising up this next generation. At this time, Sisters Christian Academy also faces an economic slope. Due to our extremely low tuition rates and a declining student enrollment, we may need to close our doors. Our board is deciding this month whether or not we will be opening for another year. Will you consider supporting our school, joining hands with us so that we can continue to provide a strong, solid choice for families who are seeking an effective, holistic, and powerful education for their children? It's time to hang on to each other and help Sisters Christian Academy continue to exist.

Please contact the school if you are able to join hands with us in these slippery times. Find out what you can do to help by calling us at 541-549-4133. Or, better yet, stop by for a visit. The coffee's always on.